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In Congo, ERD responds to civil unrest

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is providing critical emergency assistance to more than 200 displaced people from the Province de L’Eglise Anglicane in the north-east region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bishop Henri Isingoma and Anglicans from the Diocese of Boga were forced to flee their homes last week after a recent upsurge of rebel violence. They were able to circumvent the rebels by traveling for two days through the forests to seek refuge in Bunia, the capital of the Ituri province.

About 40 families are temporarily living in church buildings in Bunia. United Nations peacekeepers have been stationed around Bunia to quell the violence but tensions remain high as government troops clash with rebels in neighboring regions only six miles away from the Bunia. As the threat of attack persists outside of the town, displaced people are continuing to seek shelter in Bunia churches. It remains unclear when the rebel groups will disperse and allow the families to return home securely. ERD is providing funds for the churches to feed and shelter the refugees until they can safely relocate.

Janette O’Neill, senior program advisor for ERD, met with the Congolese representative in Uganda last week about the Bunia situation and then traveled to the Diocese of Aru, Congo, to visit program sites.

To make a donation that will directly support people displaced by the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, contact ERD and make a contribution to the “Disaster Response Fund.” These emergency funds allow ERD to assist people and stay in the community to help rebuild. Visit ERD online here, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.